Maxillary bone augmentation with calvarial bone graft for immediate full‐arch rehabilitation: Insights from a 10‐year proof‐of‐concept retrospective analysis

Abstract

ObjectiveEvaluate the long‐term outcomes of full‐arch rehabilitation using immediate dental implant placement and continuous functional loading with full‐fixed dental prostheses (FFDPs).Materials and MethodsFifty‐six patients received temporary implants (n = 327) at maxillary augmentation with calvarial bone. A provisional acrylic FFDP was immediately loaded onto these implants. After 6 months, the temporary implants were replaced with definitive implants (n = 326) and immediately loaded with a second provisional FFDP (N = 55). Subsequently, a baseline radiograph was taken following a 6‐month healing period. The second bridge was then substituted with a definitive FFDP. Primary outcomes included peri‐implant marginal bone level (MBL) and definitive implant survival. Secondary outcomes evaluated provisional implant and prostheses survival, complications, and patient satisfaction.ResultsThe provisional implants had a survival rate of 97.9%. One patient was excluded from further analysis due to loss of temporary implants and first FFDP. The definitive implant survival rate after 10 years was 92.2%, with a moderate but significant decrease in MBL between baseline radiography and 10 years later (−0.08 ± 0.18 vs. −0.24 ± 0.44). However, large individual variations were observed, with 65.8% of implants showing no bone loss and 9.2% showing loss ≥0.5 mm. Sinusitis was experienced by 14.3% of patients upon surgery. Patient satisfaction was high or reported no issues after protocol completion (80%). One patient lost all six definitive implants and definitive FFDP 8.2 years after implant placement.ConclusionsThe described protocol can be regarded as a long‐term, highly successful method for full‐arch rehabilitation of atrophied maxillae while enabling continuous masticatory and speaking functionality.